Bus services to start using new Ryde Transport Interchange

The project to improve Ryde Transport Interchange reaches an important milestone this week when Southern Vectis services will begin using the new bus station.

The bus station area has been extensively remodelled as part of the interchange project which is designed to provide better travel connectivity as well as much-improved public space for residents and visitors.

The scheme is primarily funded by government grant from the Transforming Cities Fund following a successful bid by the Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council and Hampshire County Council (together as South East Hampshire Rapid Transport) for £55.6m million.

Around £10 million of this has been awarded for the Ryde Transport Interchange improvements.

Improvements to the bus station will create a better environment for bus users and pedestrians making it easier and safer for vehicles to manoeuvre in and around the station.

The new design means buses will no longer have to reverse out of their bays and when the scheme completes next month, they will be able to exit the station via George Street, operating more efficiently as they will not have to leave the town via Dover Street roundabout.

The new bus station will come into operation from 5am tomorrow (Tuesday). Services will no longer use the temporary bus facility, although the area on the southern side of the Esplanade will be retained for possible use by not-in-service vehicles until the scheme is complete.

Stand C will be the route 9's temporary home until the remaining works are complete’

Also from 5am Tuesday, the taxi rank will move to its new permanent location next to the Rose Gardens.

All the work is being undertaken by Island Roads on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council.

Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for transport, said: “I am pleased the project is really starting to take shape and as we enter the final phases I think people can now really see the improvements it will deliver not just for travellers but for all who use and enjoy the Esplanade.”